Is the Briard Good For You?

Briards tend to be familiar with children which make them a good family pet.

HISTORY

The Braird is one of the earliest of dog breeds that has been in existence since the mid 19th century. The breed owes their name to the French province of Brie, where the owner of an early Briard lived. They were originally used in herding, but were later recruited in the French Army owing to their unusual sense of hearing. The modern Braird is the crossbreed of the pure-bred Beauceron and the Barbet, which has improved the personality of the breed. Even today, the dog is being used for herding and military purposes.

quick facts

Size

Large

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Hair Length

Long

Male Height

24-27 inches

Male Weight

75 pounds average

Female Height

22-25 inches

Female Weight

75 pounds average

Litter Size

Usually 8 to 10 puppies

APPEARANCE

The Braird is a well-built, strong herding dog. They are covered in a thick coat of long fur and have a large, boxy head. Their tail is long and feathery, resembling a crochet hook towards the tip. Their undercoat is very fine hair while the coat is less soft and much more wavy. They have a black nose that sits right in the middle of their squared muzzle and have short, round, barely noticeable ears that lay close to their furry head.

PERSONALITY

The Braird has an excellent memory and unusual sense of hearing, but is not the kind of dog that gels with everyone. Though loving and obedient, the Braird does not enjoy long training sessions. But the dog is certainly going to get along well with an owner who is into outdoor activities. The dog should be familiar with children and other breeds to be friendly with them, otherwise the Braird will be at best ambivalent, and at worst aggressive. Being a herding dog, the Braird has a tendency to be protective of their “flock” and wary of outsiders. Also, something to look out for especially in a home with children, is their habit of trying to herd people.

color

The typical colors of the Briard are black, grey, or tawny. However, the puppy tawny coat turns into a lighter yearling coat. They can also be a combination of two of the pre-mentioned colors.